DV Research
There is no specific criminal offence of domestic violence. Instead, a definition that refers to “incidents of threatening behaviour, violence or abuse” was adopted by the Government in 2004.
The Government have announced a new definition of Domestic Violence so it now includes young people under 18. Not only does the definition cover a wider age group it also now includes a much wider range of behaviour.
The new definition of domestic violence and abuse now states:
Any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive or threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between those aged 16 or over who are or have been intimate partners or family members regardless of gender or sexuality. This can encompass but is not limited to the following types of abuse:
- psychological
- physical
- sexual
- financial
- emotional
Controlling behaviour can be a range of acts which make an individual subordinate and/or dependent by isolating them from sources of support, exploiting their resources and capacities for personal gain, depriving them of the means needed for independence, resistance and escape and regulating their everyday behaviour.
Coercive behaviour is an act or acts of assault, threats, humiliation and intimidation or other abuse that is used to harm, punish, or frighten their victim.
This definition, which is not a legal definition, includes so called ‘honour’ based violence, female genital mutilation (FGM) and forced marriage. The definition is clear that victims are not confined to one gender or ethnic group.
The definition includes acts such as:
- Preventing partners from leaving the house
- Preventing partner from having access to a phone
- Preventing a partner from seeing family and friends
- Preventing a partner from socialising
- Preventing a partner from having access to their own money
Many women are not aware that they are victims of domestic abuse, and It is hoped the new broadened definition of domestic violence will increase awareness of what domestic abuse is and who is suffering it.
Domestic violence statistics
- One in four women will be a victim of domestic violence in their lifetime
- About two in five of all victims of domestic violence are men
- One incident of domestic violence is reported to the police every minute.
- On average, 35 assaults happen before the police are called
- 12% of under 11s, 18% of 11-17s and 24% of 18-24s have been exposed to domestic abuse between adults
The new definition will be implemented by March 2013
Here at Lewis Rodgers we believe it is important that victims of domestic abuse have the ability to seek advice regarding the law and the options available to them.
We offer legal aid for all types of family law matters and our legal aid family solicitors deal with children Issues, domestic violence, divorce, finances in divorce, separation and care cases. Contact us to make an appointment today at our: Winsford Office on: 01606 861 858 or our Macclesfield office on: 01625 429114. Provide walk in evenings.